Gambel's Quail
Callipepla gambelii
The Callipepla gambelii birds are easily recognized by their top knots and scaly plumage on their undersides. Gambel's quail have bluish-gray plumage on much of their bodies, and males have copper feathers on the top of their heads, black faces, and white stripes above their eyes. Their average length is 11 in (28 cm) with a wingspan of 14–16 in (36–41 cm). These birds have relatively short, rounded wings and long, featherless legs. Their diet consists primarily of plant matter and seeds. Gambel's quail can be commonly confused with California quail due to their similar plumage.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Scaled Quail
Callipepla squamata
This bird is named for the scaly appearance of its breast and back feathers. Along with its scaly markings, the bird is easily identified by its white crest that resembles a tuft of cotton. It typically measures 25.4–30.5 cm (10.0–12.0 in) in length, 38 cm (15 in) in wingspan, and weighs 177–191 g (6.2–6.7 oz).
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where you might meet both
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Play today's Daily BirdPhotos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Gambel's Quail and Scaled Quail.